At a crossroad and haven't even started....

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So I have a couple questions. I have wanted to become a nurse for a VERY long time. I have just re-enrolled at FSCJ. I am seriously considering the RN program. (Other careers I am interested in are physical therapy assistant and occupational therapy assistant). Three classes to start, but plan on going full time. I'm a stay at home, homeschooling mom of three boys. I'm 37 years old.

As far as RN. Through my research, I have discovered that 1 in every 5 nurses leave the profession within the first year of graduation. From reading on here, is this because of work environment and patient overload? Seems mostly a combination of things, all pointing back to stress as the main factor.

If this is the case, and there is such a shortage of nurses, why are only a limited amount accepted into the program and why only a total of 3 times (at FSCJ)? I was told if you are not chosen the 2nd go around, they will automatically toss your name out. I'm looking at the program. For example, summer term, only 96 students are accepted. (Fall and Spring the number is alittle higher). Anyone know the average number that apply?

This is the same for OTA and PTA. Only with these programs, a TOTAL of 30 :uhoh3: students accepted PER YEAR.

I know I have a while to go before applying, but I don't want to spend all my energy, bust my butt, only to not be accepted into one of these programs in the end. That would be devastating. :banghead: With my age, I don't want to make any mistakes. What is THE MOST important factor in being chosen for the RN program? I have the breakdown of numbers, but does it pretty much begin and end with GPA? Then the PSB-NAT test? I also see that you are awarded 20 points for health related work experience. Are there alot of LPN, MA, RT, paramedics, etc. that go for this? I have no prior health related work experience.

Is it possible to get all my pre-reqs and general ed classes, and depending on how many apply with me, make a choice to ANOTHER school's nursing program? I don't even know if this makes sense. Please advise because I am about burned out by all the research I've done and questions I still have. I know, I know....I'll never know unless I try. I am just being realistic and want to know in advance what I am up against.

Thank you so much to all who can offer advice.

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If this is the case, and there is such a shortage of nurses, why are only a limited amount accepted into the program and why only a total of 3 times (at FSCJ)?

If you read alot of threads on this site, you will see that there is no shortage of nurses in our area.

This is the same for OTA and PTA. Only with these programs, a TOTAL of 30 :uhoh3: students accepted PER YEAR.

I know I have a while to go before applying, but I don't want to spend all my energy, bust my butt, only to not be accepted into one of these programs in the end.

I am older than you with three kids and felt the same way. I decided to get the pre-reqs for PTA, because that is my preferred program, but I also have picked up other classes that would qualify me to apply for both Cardio Tech and Nursing. In other words, I have a plan B and C, because I am not willing to wait another year to begin a program.

Is it possible to get all my pre-reqs and general ed classes, and depending on how many apply with me, make a choice to ANOTHER school's nursing program? I don't even know if this makes sense. Please advise because I am about burned out by all the research I've done and questions I still have.

100% yes. Cover the pre-reqs for several programs and apply to all, even if it's a different school. The good thing about going to state colleges is that the credits are usually transferred with no problem.

Best regards, LB

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LB- Thank you so much for the great advice!! I've been so centered in on ONE career choice of the three, I didn't realize it's smart to have a plan B and plan C. Wow. To cover all the prereqs for RN, PTA, and OTA- I have to compare and see all that I need and how long it would take to get there. Are you in my area for FSCJ? I've also looked into Diag Ultrasound Therapy, but right now I see no demand at all for that, here at least. I have been going to EmployFlorida.com, typing in the position to see the demand. I am planning on putting 110% into this and just want to do everything right.

Thanks again :)

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LB- Thank you so much for the great advice!! I've been so centered in on ONE career choice of the three, I didn't realize it's smart to have a plan B and plan C. Wow. To cover all the prereqs for RN, PTA, and OTA- I have to compare and see all that I need and how long it would take to get there. Are you in my area for FSCJ? I've also looked into Diag Ultrasound Therapy, but right now I see no demand at all for that, here at least. I have been going to EmployFlorida.com, typing in the position to see the demand. I am planning on putting 110% into this and just want to do everything right.

Thanks again :)

Some of the pre-reqs for these programs are overlapping. I researched FSCJ's PTA program, but because it's at the North Campus, it was too far away for me to consider. The PTA and OTA programs in North FL are offered at far fewer colleges than nursing. I went to an information session for PTA at CFCC in Ocala in Nov. 2009 and was told that they had a two year waiting list already. I am applying for Daytona State which has a point system selection and no waiting list.

I have already taken some classes like Sociology and Microcomputer Applications that weren't pre-reqs for the PTA program, and I don't regret it at all. All of my classes for the fall term are alternate pre-reqs for other programs. If I get into the PTA program these other classes are just extra, I learn something useful and I didn't have to start paying on my student loan yet.;)

I started last summer, and by this upcoming Jan., will have all pre-reqs done. I know some would probably say to concentrate on that one program that you want to get into, but I see it as getting into the field of work that I would love whether it's as a PTA, a Cardio Tech or a Nurse. :redbeathe

Regards, LB

BTW, I did some of my volunteer observation hours in a physical therapy clinic and I gotta say that I left feeling like I would be truly blessed to have a job like that. It wasn't even like work, I loved all the patients. If caring for the patients is what touches you, there are so many ways to do that. Hey, it's not like we can't go back to school again if we change our minds.:lol2:

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That is so true. Are you going full time? Wow, didn't know that about the 2 year wait for PTA. This is my first choice actually. I just want to help people. I think when I start my pre reqs and get my feet wet, I'll figure it out. After your first post, I compared all 3 programs and have all the pre req classes written down in front of me. I'm so excited to get this rolling, although alittle scared about going back to school. I homeschool my children so I will still do that in the daytime, study for myself the rest lol. Let's keep in touch so we can support each other. Are you on Facebook?

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That is so true. Are you going full time? Wow, didn't know that about the 2 year wait for PTA. This is my first choice actually. I just want to help people. I think when I start my pre reqs and get my feet wet, I'll figure it out. After your first post, I compared all 3 programs and have all the pre req classes written down in front of me. I'm so excited to get this rolling, although alittle scared about going back to school. I homeschool my children so I will still do that in the daytime, study for myself the rest lol. Let's keep in touch so we can support each other. Are you on Facebook?

I am behind the times, I don't do Facebook. I also homeschooled when I first started, but all my kids are in public school now. You can PM me through this site if you want. I started off as a part time student for two terms, then increased my classes for spring and will be full time this fall.

I think that having homeschooled will give you an advantage, because you are always looking for the best way to teach your children a concept. In the process of teaching, you are learning or relearning also. You may be more equipped to start college than you think.:)

Once you get your feet wet, it's not nearly as bad as you might think. I was nervous because it had been 20 years, but studying is still the same. I have been fascinated with every subject I have taken so far (except maybe Algebra). I guess mainly I would say, don't be overwhelmed or discouraged. A year ago I took Human

Development online and Psychology as a twice a week night class during the Summer term, it was hard work, but passing both of those classes built my confidence that I could handle it. If you need a pre-req but couldn't get in at your school, look into being a transient student at another school that offers the same class.

Best, LB

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All I can tell you is that if you want to do this, then you should, and you can. If the school you want doesn't want you, then apply somewhere else. Don't give up because a lot of people have obstacles on their way to nursing school.

If you can talk yourself out of it then it may not be for you. But it sounds like you really want this. So do this for yourself, you still have plenty of time. And if there is not a shortage of nurses where you live then, you will be able to find work elsewhere. My mother is an RT they have less openings then RNs, she can find work in any state. That's the good thing about healthcare you may have to look for a bit but you will find something. My guess is that you would like the income to help your family? Then why not show you children that you can accomplish anything ;) Good luck!!!!!!!!!!! :) Hope this helps

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